The Waukesha Christmas parade tragedy, a year old wound ripped open. Families grieving their loved ones addressed Darrell Brooks, the man who turned a festive day into a nightmare. His SUV became a weapon, leaving six dead, one a child, and dozens injured.
“November 21st was a day that was supposed to be fun and filled with laughter and smiles. Instead, it became a nightmare full of fear, screams, and tears,” shared Sherry Sparks, mother of eight-year-old Jackson Sparks, whose life was tragically cut short that day.
Brooks, in yet another display of courtroom antics, insulted the D.A. who secured his conviction, prompting Judge Jennifer Dorow to deliver a powerful message: “He is fueled by anger and rage. Some people unfortunately choose a path of evil, and I think Mr. Brooks, you are one of those such persons.”
The sentencing hearing became a stage for raw emotions, with victims and families bravely confronting the man who caused them so much pain.
A Community Relives the Horror
This Law & Crime Sidebar podcast recaps the emotionally charged sentencing of Darrell Brooks, analyzing the key moments and the impact on a community still reeling from the tragedy.
Kathy Russin, Executive Producer of the Law & Crime Network, joins the podcast, sharing her insights on the trial’s evolution from spectacle to a platform for victims’ voices. She admits the raw emotions expressed by families transcended the typical detachment she developed over years of covering court cases.
Darrell Brooks: A Pattern of Denial and Disrespect
Throughout the trial, Brooks maintained a bizarre defense strategy, often refusing to acknowledge his own name. He oscillated between representing himself and claiming to be a sovereign citizen, further adding to the confusion and frustration in the courtroom. This pattern of denial continued even at the sentencing hearing, when he initially introduced himself as “Darrell Brooks Jr.” before reverting to his usual tactics.
Brooks’ behavior, however, took a turn towards the expected when directly confronted by the profound grief and loss he caused.
Mothers’ Tears Speak Volumes
Sherry Sparks, Jackson’s mother, delivered a heartbreaking testimony, painting a vivid picture of the joy and anticipation that quickly morphed into unimaginable terror. Kelly Grabow, whose daughter Delia suffered serious injuries, spoke about the lasting trauma and the fear instilled in her child.
Sherry Sparks, mother of Jackson Sparks, addresses the court during the sentencing hearing
Russin, herself a mother, connected deeply with the pain and resilience of these families. She commended their composure in the face of Brooks’ callous demeanor, acknowledging the strength it took to deliver their statements. The courtroom became their space to reclaim the narrative from the chaos Brooks created.
Facing the “Plaintiff”
One of the more striking moments came when one of Leanna Owen’s sons, Matt, addressed Brooks directly. His words cut through the legal jargon and Brooks’ attempts to distance himself from responsibility. “I am the plaintiff,” he declared, reminding Brooks of the human cost of his actions. This powerful statement resonated with other families, who echoed the sentiment, dismantling Brooks’ attempts to minimize their pain.
Raw Emotions Boil Over
The tension in the courtroom was palpable, and at times, the anguish felt by those present became too much to bear. A man, overwhelmed by Brooks’ disrespectful behavior towards the judge, yelled at Brooks to be quiet and listen.
While acknowledging the need for order in the court, Russin expressed discomfort with the man’s removal, arguing that Judge Dorow, known for her patience, could have handled the situation differently given the context. This moment highlighted the immense emotional toll the trial took on everyone involved.
Don Woods: A Mother’s Plea for Understanding
Don Woods, Brooks’ mother, delivered a poignant statement, focusing on her son’s history of mental illness and advocating for compassion and improved mental health resources. While acknowledging the need for consequences, she urged the court to consider the role of mental illness in her son’s actions.
Don Woods, Darrell Brooks' mother, addresses the court during his sentencing hearing.
This sparked a debate about the line between accountability and empathy. While some viewed Woods’ words as misplaced defense of a horrific act, others, including Russin, felt for her as a mother grappling with the reality of her son’s actions.
Judge Dorow: “A Heart Bent on Evil”
Judge Dorow, however, remained unconvinced by the mental illness defense. She cited four independent psychological evaluations that concluded Brooks was aware of right and wrong. “There is no medication or treatment for a heart that is bent on evil,” she declared, delivering a powerful message before handing down the sentence.
Dorow’s handling of the case, both her restraint and her directness, drew praise from those following the trial. She allowed Brooks a significant amount of leeway in presenting his case, ensuring a fair trial, yet didn’t shy away from calling out his behavior and delivering a sentence that reflected the gravity of his crimes.
Justice Served, Scars Remain
Darrell Brooks received six life sentences plus 700 years, ensuring he’ll spend the rest of his life behind bars. While this brings a sense of closure to a long and painful chapter, the scars of that horrific day will forever remain etched in the hearts of Waukesha and beyond.
